Friday, 4 April 2014

As if things weren't bad enough, weather reports show a polar low forming up in the neighbourhood. We've seen the satellite pictures, and it looks nasty. We may lose communications for a while if it hits us.

(Photo courtesy NOAA)

But life goes on here at Zodiac. Pity the poor souls who have to go out and check the instruments in this.

Thursday, 3 April 2014

Following an alarmming series of accidents, all staff are confined to base with immediate effect, until further notice. This is in compliance with the Zodiac Station and BSPA Health and Safety policy. No exceptions will be made.

I understnad this is difficult for scientists with experiments running in the field. In light of recent events, I have no other option. We will make every effort to return to normal normal as soon as possible.

Until then, I ask for your patience and understanding in this difficult time.

Tuesday, 1 April 2014

It is with profound shock and sadness that we announce the death of Professor Martin Hagger.

Martin Hagger was one of the finest biologists of his generation. He first came to Zodiac Station two years ago, and was a much-loved member of the team. The experiments he conducted here were instrumental in his demonstration of the concept of 'cold genesis', which was reported around the world and earned him the Biotechnology Heritage Award, one of many prizes earned during a distinguished career.

Professor Hagger died doing what he loved best - pushing back the boundaries of science. Tragically, he appears to have fallen into an unmarked crevasse on the Helbreen glacier while sampling ice cores. His body was found by his assistant, Thomas Anderson, who recently joined him on Utgard. It is indicative of Professor Hagger's wide academic legacy, and the affection he inspired among those who worked for him, that Anderson was himself a one-time graduate student of Hagger's who leapt at the chance to work with his former mentor.

Dr Francis Quam, Base Commander at Zodiac Station, said, 'Martin Hagger was a great scientist, a respected colleague, and a good friend. The best tribute to his memory will be to continue the valuable scientific work we do at Zodiac Station. At this time of grief, we remember the words of Captain Robert Scott. "I do not regret this journey. We took risks, we knew we took them. Things have come out against us, and therefore we have no cause for complaint."'

Professor Hagger is survived by two children by his first marriage, and one by his second. His funeral will be held in Cambridge once his body is repatriated.